MICROELECTRONICS COMPANIES here expect to create 2,000 research and development jobs over the next five years, according to a survey conducted by the industry’s representative body.

Local start-ups within the sector are also performing well internationally, with a disproportionate amount of venture capital being attracted.

Over 8,000 people are employed in the industry across over 50 multinational and indigenous companies, according to Midas Ireland (Microelectronics Industry Design Association). Two thousand of those are in RD, with that number anticipated to double in the coming years.

“In a survey of industry members as to what they saw in growth prospects going forward, they saw the circuit design and RD piece double over the next five years,” said John Blake, director of On Semiconductor in Co Limerick and chairman of Midas Ireland. “However, there are a lot of supports from government and State agencies that we need to support that growth.”

Four Irish companies were recently named among a list of the world’s 60 top start-ups in a trade publication, according to Mr Blake. He said this shows significant strength in the sector. Irish companies are attracting 10 per cent of all venture capital revenue being invested in the industry worldwide, he added.

According to Mr Blake it is crucial for the industry to raise awareness, particularly among third-level students, so as to ensure that there is a strong supply of graduates to fill vacancies in the sector.

Mr Blake said it was also important the industry worked with bodies at second and third level to ensure the relevant courses available were of a high standard.

Midas has set up an online jobs portal, which currently has 100 positions advertised.